A little about us

Vancouver Island Brewing is made up of a group of passionate, inspired people. We are proud to be driving innovation in an industry that we helped pioneer in British Columbia. We brew a selection of beers that can accompany you on all your adventures.

We’re committed to producing fun, authentic, shareable brews. We never compromise on quality, and that is reflected in all the beers that we make. It’s our commitment to you that when you choose Vancouver Island Brewing, you’ll always get our best.

Our History

Island Pacific Brewing was founded in 1984 by small business owners in southern Vancouver Island. We moved into a facility in central Saanich and serviced the pubs on Vancouver Island with brands such as Goldstream Lager, Hermann’s Dark Lager and Piper’s Pale Ale. In 1987, Hermann Hoerterer brewed the first batch of Hermannator — a special gift for his close friends. It was the first “specialty” beer to be packed in Victoria in decades.

We outgrew our home in central Saanich in the mid-90s and moved to our current home on Government Street in 1996, accompanied by a name-change to Vancouver Island Brewery. The facility was purpose-built and was the first production brewery in downtown Victoria since Labatt levelled the old Victoria-Phoenix Brewery in 1982.

Over our history, Vancouver Island Brewery has only ever had two Brewmasters, Hermann and Ralf Pittroff. Ralf became the brewmaster in 2001. Combined, they have created dozens of champion beers, many of which are immortalized in the form of medals, certificates, steins and trophies.

Meet the/Production Manager

Danny Seeton

As the Production Manager and R&D Brewer at Vancouver Island Brewing, Danny Seeton has moved away from the rubber-booted brewing of his past, but still spends a considerable amount of his time writing recipes. From test batches to full production run he leads the team in recipe adjustments and improvements. Danny’s focus on traditional styles and high drinkability is due, in large part, to his passion for beer judging. As BC’s first National ranked BJCP judge and armed with an MSc in physical chemistry, he takes an analytical approach to flavour profiles and balance.

Say hey/Accounting Clerk

Leah Steeds

Leah joned VI Brewing in 2012 and is one of the friendly people answering your calls. Thoughtful and incredibly organized, she enjoys playing a game with the Marketing Execution Manager where she intentionally wears the same colour pants as him every single day.